The best Android tablets: From the Samsung Galaxy to the kid-friendly Fire

As the leading alternative to the iOS operating system, we’ve put together a list of the best Android tablets that offer great processing, decent gaming, storage and even an attractive price

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While iPads are the go-to tablet for many people, Android tablets can offer similar capabilities and often at a more 'purse-friendly' price, making them a worthwhile consideration if you are on the hunt for a new device. Plus, just like Apple, Android are constantly upgrading and improving their technology, so unless you are looking for Apple-specific features, you won't be missing out.

Want a round-up that includes the iPad, too? Check out our selection of the best tablets

Whether you’re looking to use your new Android tablet to work from home, watch films or hand it over to the kids to keep them quiet on the car journey to granny’s house, there’s literally a device to suit a whole variety of needs and price ranges.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3comes up tops in our list for its superior processing powers, quad-speaker system (yes that's right 4 speakers!), AKG sound and Vulkan graphics - making it ideal for movie-lovers, gamers and music fanatics alike.

If it's a simple tablet you are after, for general web browsing, basic game playing and sending the odd e-mail from anywhere, anytime - the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017), with its attractive RRP, should suit someone looking for a basic no-frills tablet down to the ground.

Keep reading for our pick of the best Android tablets 2018 has to offer.

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

The perfect tablet for those looking to take their work with them on the go

With its portable size and weight, extensive battery life and latest Android 7.0 operating system, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 is certainly one for those who like to take their work, movies, games and music with them on the go. There’s the addition of HDR video and quad speakers that promise to deliver super quality sound, ensuring superb playback of your favourite films and TV shows. Artistic types will love the improved S Pen, while those who like to take snaps of their travels should enjoy using the 13MP camera. Gamers are sure to love this tablet too, not only are the Vulkan graphics raved about by reviewers but the Galaxy Game Launcher has been optimised for the Galaxy Tab S3's screen. A winner all round.

2. Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017)

When it comes to value, Amazon are pretty up there with the Amazon Fire HD. While it may not have the processing power, picture or camera quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3, you still have full access to the Play Store and there’s enough space to download movies and TV programmes until your heart’s content. Although it may not be able to take weightier apps, it’ll take photos, play movies and run several games at a time, no problem at all. Setting you back just less than £150, this is an awesome Android tablet that you won’t mind passing over to your kids for back seat entertainment.

3. Asus ZenPad 3S 10

Matching the Samsung in both processing power and resolution, the Asus ZenPad is a solid choice. Although it may not carry the Samsung name, thanks to features such as the 4GB processor and IMG GX6250 graphics, you should be able to play the latest data heavy apps no problem. The SonicMaster speakers promise to deliver superior quality sound, and when it comes to exterior looks, the Asus is more than up to the mark.

4. Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro

With its flexible usage, Yoga is a more than apt name for this clever tablet

Bend the Lenovo Yoga to your will with four ways to use the tablet. Whether you’re projecting the latest game onto your lounge wall, standing the tablet up while you rustle up your favourite recipe, holding it, or even hanging it from the back seat. It’s great that Lenovo haven’t forgotten about the tech side of things either, with a quad core processor, long battery life and QHD display. While users say the projector doesn’t quite have the quality of a specifically designed projector, for a tablet that does it all, it’s a great device.

5. Huawei MediaPad M3 8.0

With its 24 hour battery life, this is a great tablet for taking on long journeys

Although it may be a touch smaller than some of the other Android tablets on our list, it’s pretty mighty when it comes to tech. Again, it doesn’t carry the name of Samsung but that doesn’t mean it can’t match up with features. It boasts a hi-res display, features the Android 6.0 processor (Samsung operates on the latest Android 7.0) which is great for running the latest apps, stereo speakers and a clever dynamic brightness control so you don’t strain your eyes. Best of all is the 24 hour battery power, and with users backing up its abilities, it isn’t just a marketing ploy.

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S2

Costing around £250 less than the S3, this is great tablet to buy if you like a well-known brand. It’s slim and lightweight, making it the ideal buy for slipping into your work bag. It offers up 3GB of RAM and the Android 6.0 processor to the table, which isn’t quite up to S3 standard but is still great for playing games and streaming content. If you like using your tablet for reading, you’ll be pleased to learn that the S2 features an immersive 4:3 screen ratio which optimises the reading experience.

7. Amazon Fire HD 8 (2017)

With an RRP of just £79.99, this is super cheap tablet perfect for the kids

Okay, so it’s not gonna make the best Android tablet for work but when the kids want to catch up on their shows or you need to keep them entertained in the back of the car for a while, this older version of the Amazon Fire HD is pretty much perfect. You can ensure that the tablet is completely kid proof (so they’re not accidentally spending a fortune on apps or looking at things that young eyes shouldn’t see) but there’s still plenty of great features including a 12 hour battery life, a memory card slot for another 256GB of storage, Dolby Atmos speakers and the Fire works alongside Alexa for full smart home control.